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| Cradles http://www.hobie.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=70&t=69686 |
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| Author: | klppurdy [ Mon Apr 11, 2022 3:23 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Cradles |
Good Afternoon, Are there different cradles for the single versus the double? There seems to be a pre 2015 model and post, are the pre 2015 model cradles acceptable for post 2015 boats. Thanks, Lifelong hobie fan and owner |
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| Author: | mmiller [ Wed Apr 13, 2022 9:25 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
2015 AI has a different shape. The Tandem Island is also different from the Adventure Island. https://www.hobie.com/parts-and-accessories/?ItemGroup%5Bquery%5D=cradle |
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| Author: | pro10is [ Thu Apr 14, 2022 5:39 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
I'd advise you not to use the cradles. Mine seriously cracked to the point that they did some minor damage to the hull. Hobie replaced them under warranty but I am not going to use them again for fear of more hull damage.  I now use PVC pipe as a cradle. A lot less expensive and it works much better with no cracking. |
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| Author: | mmiller [ Thu Apr 14, 2022 10:52 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
The ends likely were overloaded or hit. Did they extend beyond the end of the crossbar? |
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| Author: | pro10is [ Fri Apr 15, 2022 6:37 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
mmiller wrote: The ends likely were overloaded or hit. Did they extend beyond the end of the crossbar? Nope, they were solidly mounted on wood beams by the Hobie dealer using the holes provided that were meant for that purpose. They weren't overloaded, they only ever held the TI as they were designed for. Both sides cracked as can be seen so it's unlikely that both sides were hit. In my opinion, the cradles are constructed of plastic that is simply too rigid, they need to flex more to avoid cracking during use. Mine aren't the only ones this has happened to. This has been discussed in this forum by others as well. |
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| Author: | mmiller [ Fri Apr 15, 2022 10:44 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
There could be thin material issues or UV issues. If the sheet of ABS is upside down it may not get the right UV protection. Thermoformed materials have to stretch to form and then if they trim the edges to a sharp point... maybe that induces a crack point. You can always file a warranty claim. A significant reduction in cost if out of warranty. |
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| Author: | gankn [ Fri Sep 09, 2022 10:20 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
How long did it take for them to crack? |
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| Author: | pro10is [ Sun Sep 11, 2022 5:15 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
gankn wrote: How long did it take for them to crack? Less than two years. Over the years that I've owned my TI, I've found that using any plastic for trailers is a bad choice in material. Even my PVC bunks crack over time and I have to replace them. Trailering is actually an extreme application for plastic because of all the constant flexing going on when on the road. Plastic can only take just so much flexing before it finally gives out and cracks. This is why trailer manufacturers use metal for the frame and wood for boat bunks, they never use plastic as a material for any structural or support members subject to stresses that cause plastic to fail. I'm now looking for a better way to support my TI using something other than the plastic cradles or PVC pipe. Once I get the TI off the trailer for storage, I'll be removing the PVC and redesigning the bunks with something more robust. When I come up with a better design, I'll post it on this forum. |
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| Author: | quattroguy [ Mon Sep 12, 2022 6:16 am ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
I am surprised the PVC cracked. It is a pretty thick and strong material, I have not had any problems and mine are over 5 years old. Was the hobie cradle supported across the whole width? My trailer has 3 inch wide crossbars so the cradle was bolted in at the center and outer supports, really could not flex. Still hated them, much happier with PVC. For what it is worth sunfish spars are aluminum and a perfect length to fit under the boat. |
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| Author: | fletchb [ Sun Oct 02, 2022 6:49 pm ] |
| Post subject: | Re: Cradles |
I just picked up my new TI tonight (yea!) but with the new trailer came the cradles. Is there anything I can do to prolong their life (303, drive slow to keep down vibrations/etc?) Thanks... |
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